08 Aug McClary Family Story

In September of 2021, we were shocked by the news that our family of four was soon going to turn into a family of six. We were pregnant with twin girls! What exciting, yet terrifying news as we knew the increased risks with twin pregnancies. At 20 weeks, we found out Baby A was not growing at the same rate at Baby B and by 26 weeks the weight gap became significant enough that we were sent to Boise to meet with maternal-fetal specialists. For weeks, we traveled to Boise once or twice a week, never knowing whether we were coming home or staying. On March 4^th, about 6 weeks too early, our beautiful girls made their arrival. Baby A, Koralyn Ann, weighed only 2lbs, 14oz, and Baby B, Brooklyn Rae, was 2lbs bigger, at 4lbs 14oz. We were so relieved they were here, although we knew the difficult journey had just begun.

Being discharged from the hospital without our brand-new babies left us with one of the emptiest feelings we had ever felt. We didn’t know where we would stay or how we’d balance being away from our two older daughters at home. That’s when we were introduced to the Ronald McDonald House. Little did we know, this would turn out to be one our greatest blessings. We were welcomed with compassion, offered a room just a short walk from the NICU, and freed from the stress of meals, lodging, and everyday necessities.

COVID restrictions prevented our older daughters from visiting the twins in the hospital and since they were young, they didn’t fully understand the situation. They struggled with us being away. My parents would bring them to visit on the weekends, and the Ronald McDonald House made them feel so cared for. They provided many opportunities for us to spend quality time together, including homemade meals, indoor movie nights and passes to the zoo and aquarium, just to name a few. One of the most memorable experiences with our older girls at the house was the magic toy closet. Seeing the smiles this brought to their faces as they used a wand to open a door filled with shelves of toys was unforgettable. They were five and three years old at the time and still talk about it to this day. And so does my husband!

Days at the hospital were long and stressful but over our 26-day stay, we were continually uplifted by volunteers, staff, and other families. We formed lasting friendships with parents walking a similar path even including our neighbors whom we didn’t know at the time (such a small world!). Our kids continue to play together today, and it has been so fun watching them grow up to become friends.

My kids frequently ask if we can go back and stay at the House. And although I hope we are never in that situation again, I think that shows what a truly incredible place the Ronald McDonald House is. I’m grateful to say that our twins are now three years old and are doing great. Koralyn, who we lovingly call our “boss baby” may be small, but she is proof tiny really can be mighty. Brooklyn is our sweet, joyful soul, always full of energy and keeping us on our toes. Watching their bond grow now, it’s hard to believe how fragile those early days were. We feel so blessed to get to raise these two beautiful little girls as I know not all families have such a happy ending.

The Ronald McDonald House wasn’t just a place to stay; it was a source of comfort and lasting memories. We truly felt the love and care that surrounded us every day. We will forever be grateful for the support that helped carry us through this difficult chapter of our lives. The Ronald McDonald House isn’t just a house, it’s a home. It will always hold a special place in our hearts, and we look forward to paying it forward in the years to come.

– McClary Family | Heyburn, ID | 26 Nights at the House